The 26th of August is International Dog Day: a time to celebrate our best friends and their fun-loving nature. For everything dogs give us – from unconditional affection to their companionship and protection – they deserve the happiest of days. Here’s how you can make it special.
1. Adopt, don’t shop
Is someone you know looking for a dog? Suggest they adopt one from an animal shelter. So many dogs are longing for a home, not just puppies. Older dogs also make great companions, they’re often calmer, already socialised and just as loving.
2. Let them eat ‘cake’
Today deserves treats, whether it’s their usual favourites or those new dog biscuits you’ve been saving for a special occasion. Need ideas? Our canine friends love Lily’s Kitchen, Elkwood and Natures Menu – and we love that they’re all made with natural ingredients. Just make sure you don’t overdo it. We know those puppy eyes are hard to resist!
3. Paws for a cause
Donate food, dog toys, blankets or bedding to your local dog charity. Giving your dog’s pre-loved items a second home is incredibly rewarding. So is knowing they could help another dog feel safe, comfortable and loved.
4. Take them on an adventure
Take them somewhere unexpected. Go on a hike where you can spend some quality time together while they sniff to their heart’s content. Or take them to their favourite park and play fetch for a little longer.
5. Upgrade their bed
If your dog’s bed is worse for wear, they’ll appreciate the gift of many a good night’s sleep. These days there are as many styles of dog bed as there are dog breeds. There are donut beds, memory foam beds and plush beds, with patterns so beautiful and elegant they almost look like designer furniture.
6. Give them a home spa day
Treating your dog to some at-home pampering is fun, inexpensive and will leave them feeling great. This can mean anything from a head massage to a doggy ‘mani-pedi’. Of course, you can also go all out with a full grooming session: clip their nails, brush their coat and give them a bath with a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner.
7. Invite another dog along
A lot of us have elderly neighbours with dogs. If that’s you, try asking if their dog needs a walk. Not only will you be doing them a favour, but it could also be the start of a beautiful friendship for everyone involved – both human and canine.
Of course, sometimes simple is best, so you may want to give all the above a miss and simply give your pooch a good cuddle and some extra attention. At the end of the day, all your dog really wants is to spend time with you.
